Graphic Designer

The position requires mid-level creative talent with a proven ability to concept and craft stories, and an understanding of graphic design, typography and digital design. Under the supervision of the Senior Director, the Graphic Designer creates marketing communications materials (web, print, signage, environmental graphics, etc.), based on client specifications, needs and brand image, ensuring that job deadlines are met in due time with quality is nothing short of excellent. The position will also create and maintain files for all creative assets and resources, such as software, art materials, and special fonts, which are needed for record keeping and referencing. Collaboration with clients, vendors and other members of the Strategic Marketing and Communications (SMC) team is required to maximize creativity and excellence.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Develop creative solutions for assigned projects to meet client needs, while conforming to elements required within the established brand. 
• Attend client meetings and obtain client feedback. 
• Work with vendors on all quotes to ensure budget is met and the most cost effective and quality solution is met. 
• Ensure that all postal and mailing requirements for the most efficient and cost effective distribution are incorporated into the design of assigned projects. 
• Ensure all digital files are correctly built for final printing. 
• Organize and maintain all completed digital files on server. 
• Attend press checks as needed. 
• Proof projects for errors, obtain client approval and ensure printing accuracy. 
• Engage Senior Graphic Designers for further art direction and feedback. 
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design with specific training and proficiency in Mac design/production workstation and software (Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office). 
• 2-3 years of experience designing and producing projects from concept through execution. 
• Strong portfolio of client work. 
• Good knowledge of corporate branding, digital media and color theory. 
• Strong typographic skills. 
• Ability to function independently and in a collaborative team environment. 
• Ability to take art direction from Senior Designers and Senior Director to successfully bring projects to completion. 
• Familiarity with Wireframes, Information Architecture and Content Management Systems (CMS) a plus. 
• Knowledge of HTML and CSS preferred. 
• Good time management and multitasking skills in executing multiple projects simultaneously. 
• Ability to maintain good web design standards such as a user-friendly interface, intuitive navigation, and impactful design. 
• Ability to work with web development team to implement website designs. 
• Ability to communicate effectively with administration, faculty, staff, and vendors. 
• A positive, easy-going yet hard-working attitude.

At Columbia, we offer a rewarding work environment for our faculty and staff. We take pride in offering competitive benefits with affordable health, dental and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; commuter benefit program, life and accidental, death & dismemberment coverage; paid and unpaid leave options; work/life benefits; educational assistance programs; and retirement and financial planning benefits.

We invite you to join our talented faculty and staff and become part of our collective aspiration to ensure Columbia prepares students for success in their creative fields through innovation, engagement and real-world experiences.